It's August. The NFL draft is over and the rookies have started practicing. Now it's time to see how the team adapts to them and if the rookies can stand up to the pressure. That is where preseason games come into play. So on that note, I was able to attend the Chicago Bears game versus the Denver Broncos. With two tickets, I decided to bring my brother who happens to be a die-hard Broncos fan (No, I don't know why). Being from Chicago, I have always joked that he supports the right colors, just the wrong team. The game was at Soldier Field and that meant he was walking into enemy territory. Here is a recap of our experience at the game.
Getting to the Game and Parking:
While I am a huge advocate of public transportation, it just was not a viable option for me on a Thursday night. That being said, I drove out to the game. I found great parking at the Millenium Garage on Columbus. This was pricey but included a shuttle to and from the game. The shuttle didn't drop off right at the stadium door, but it was a quick walk from the bus. It gave me a great opportunity to see Soldier Field from a distance. That is the title picture so trust me on this.
Now I am one to experiment, so after the game, I walked back to the car. Unfortunately, that did not seem to be my brightest idea. Full disclosure here: I am directionally challenged so that may be the cause of me getting lost. While the garage was less than a mile from the stadium, I managed to walk almost 3 miles looking for my car. After getting to my car, I was able to easily able to get out of the garage and to the highway. (D.J. snarky commentary: Your phone has a Maps app on it.)
There are only two things that would make my parking experience better:
- A less expensive spot.
- Pre-arranged parking would have reduced the stress while driving to the game and hoping I found a spot. Luckily, the Stadium Scene official parking partner ParkWhiz can solve that problem. I can guarantee that I will use them next time I go to the game.
Security:
I cannot recommend reading up on your particular stadium's security policy on what can and cannot be brought into the game before heading out enough. Ladies: you cannot bring your trusty purse that holds everything to the games. However, you are allowed a clear bag. Make sure to plan in advance because you can get decent bags online. I considered trying to make my own, but have since been talked out of it.
Going through security was a breeze for me and the people around me. There are multiple checkpoints but only certain ones lead to the upper sections. The signage around the stadium is very clear and you should end up in the right area. Expect to go through a metal detector and then have your ticket scanned. We were told to take out our keys, phones, and wallets. I took out my Fitbit as well just to prevent any problems. There are large garbage bins before the entry in case you bring something not allowed. There are also additional security guards on hand for wandering spectators, but if you follow the guidelines, you shouldn't have to worry.
Food and Drink:
One word here: Expensive. I do not think I have ever paid $10 for 16oz of Miller Lite or Coors Light in my life. That being said, I believe I spent about $45.00 on food and drink during my visit. That included 3 beers and 1 order of stadium nachos. My brother spent the same amount on 3 beers and a giant pretzel with cheese sauce. The combos at the concession stands do include the option of including a beer instead of the soda at the same price. That is one spot we may have saved a dollar or two. There were several places to get a variety of food along with food vendors in the stands. The different concession stands had different food options, which resulted in some lines moving faster than others. The great news is, no matter where you are sitting, you are guaranteed that food is going to be available for purchase somewhere nearby.
The Stadium:
While the picture is breathtaking when it comes to stadiums, it does not do it justice. You have to be there in person to truly experience the atmosphere. Soldier Field is a beautiful tribute to the military and just beautiful in general. From the upper area, I was able to get a clear view of the sun setting behind the Chicago skyline and another view of the Field Museum. If I headed to the east side, Lake Michigan was glistening. The stadium is huge. Be aware there will be a lot of stairs. I did not see any elevators, but I am sure that if one is needed, employees shall be able to assist you.
Editor Note: Elevators can be found inside Gate 6 by the South Courtyard, near section 128, and section 138.
Team Spirit:
Bear Down Chicago Bears being belted out by the fans in unison after the Bears score is just one example of the team spirit. During that song, employees run around the field with Chicago Bears flags.
The players enter the field by running through a giant bear and through flames and fireworks announcing their entrance.
The drumline does not just show up on the field, they can be found in the mezzanines.
The Game:
Now that I have shared everything I observed about the stadium and the fans, there is only one thing left to write about, the game itself. First the bad news: the Bears lost and the Broncos won (although it's only the pre-season). The good news: it was an edge of your seat game. It started out with the Broncos scoring right off the bat. Then the Bears came back and started scoring. However, in the last few minutes, the Broncos scored and stole the game.
Overall, this was a great experience. The stadium is beautiful and well laid out. I was sitting up in the 300 section and had a great view. I recommend this to anyone interested in football and highly recommend going to an NFL game to any fan.
-KT
This post was proofread by Grammarly
